Match Preview: Southend United vs. Hartlepool United

Match preview for Southend United's game against Hartlepool United on Saturday in Sky Bet League Two

The Lowdown

It's been a troublesome start for Hartlepool, who have already gone through one manager already this season, when Colin Cooper opted to depart the club following their poor start to the season.

Losing the first three games of the season didn't help Pools but they did get up and running in the division with a good 2-1 victory away at AFC Wimbledon. However, this was followed up with defeat at Cheltenham a week later.

Another victory came against Shrewsbury Town before the County Durham-based side failed to register a win in five Sky Bet League Two games prior to beating Exeter City at St James Park in mid-October.

Pools have suffered defeat in their last two games in the league, against Accrington Stanley and Cambridge United.

Paul Murray took over from Cooper last month.

The Officials

Referee: Patrick Miller

Assistant Referees: Robert Hyde and Colin Lymer

Fourth Official: Christopher Pollard

The Inside View

Dave Penney: “They may be bottom of the table but if they’re up for it and give everything it could be a tough game. They have a change of manager which means a change of emphasis as well.”

Paul Murray: “It’s all about mindset. They will look at us and think about us coming all that way, feeling tired. But I see it, if I was playing, would be look to put in 90 minutes of absolute graft.”